The three-term governor touted his record in New York, where he said he was able to work with a Democratic assembly in a Democratic state to get things done, which he said is a lost art.

"An enormous percentage of Americans feel the government in Washington does not reflect their interests," Pataki said. "I think they’re right."

Pataki said Washington has become too insular, out-of-touch and is in need of reform. On the policy side, Pataki said President Donald Trump was an improvement over Obama, but he said his tweeting is undermining his presidency.

"My hope is that as the office, as the impact of the office and the importance of the office grows (on) President Trump’s awareness he will seek to be more restrained in his rhetoric and more proactive in a positive way on his policies," Pataki said.

While Pataki did not rule out another run for office, he said he is enjoying the private sector and spending time with his family.